We’ve explored Tennessee as a family, from hiking and spotting bears in the Great Smoky Mountains to live music in Nashville and the bright lights of Pigeon Forge. This guide brings together our favorite Tennessee family destinations, along with our detailed trip guides to help you plan your own vacation.
Nashville: Music City for All Ages
Sure, Nashville is known for honky-tonks and country stars, but it’s also a surprisingly great spot for families. The Country Music Hall of Fame has interactive exhibits, and Centennial Park (with its full-size replica of the Parthenon!) is perfect for a picnic and runaround. Take a walk down Broadway. You will hear live music pouring out of every door. Most spots welcome kids during the day. Don’t miss a mural photo op or two while you’re at it!
Chattanooga: Scenic Views & STEM Fun
Chattanooga is a hidden gem for family travel. Ride the historic Lookout Mountain Incline Railway, explore Ruby Falls (an underground waterfall!), and spend a day at the Tennessee Aquarium, which is consistently rated one of the best in the U.S. If your kids love hands-on learning, the Creative Discovery Museum is a must.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Nature’s Playground
Whether you’re hiking a trail to a waterfall, spotting bears (safely from the car!), or roasting marshmallows under the stars, the Smokies offer a breath of fresh mountain air. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are nearby and full of family attractions — from Dollywood to mountain coasters, mini-golf, and arcades. It’s equal parts kitschy fun and outdoor beauty — a perfect mix for a family trip.
Planning to spend time in the park? Read our complete guide to the Great Smoky Mountains with kids, including 12 things families should know about wildlife, hiking, parking, where to stay and visiting Cades Cove.
If you’re building a Tennessee itinerary that includes outdoor time, hiking, or national parks, you might also find our national park trip planning guides helpful — especially if this is your family’s first big park adventure.
Pigeon Forge & Dollywood
We’re talking roller coasters, splash zones, country music shows, and cinnamon bread that’s worth the drive all by itself. Dollywood is a family favorite for good reason: it’s clean, friendly, and has something for every age — including slower rides and play zones for younger kids. Nearby, The Island in Pigeon Forge has rides, restaurants, and shops that make it easy to spend a whole afternoon.
Road Trip Friendly & Full of Surprises
One of the best things about Tennessee? You can hit multiple destinations in one trip. It’s a drivable state with scenic routes, quirky roadside attractions, and small towns that feel like a step back in time. Add in some Southern cooking and warm hospitality, and it’s a state that welcomes families with open arms (and probably a plate of biscuits).
Memphis with Kids: Music, History and Family Fun
Memphis surprised us in the best way. It has a completely different feel from the Smokies or Nashville, with a mix of music, history, museums and great food. Families can explore Beale Street, visit the National Civil Rights Museum, learn about music history at places like Sun Studio and Stax, and spend time at family-friendly attractions around the city.
We really enjoyed Memphis as a family, and I think it works particularly well as part of a longer Tennessee road trip because it adds something completely different to the mountain and outdoor experiences elsewhere in the state.
